Analysis
Oklahoma State's marketing graduates start earning slightly below the national median at $44,366, but their trajectory tells a more promising story. Within four years, earnings jump 28% to $56,827βoutpacing most Oklahoma marketing programs and approaching University of Oklahoma's results despite OSU's broader accessibility (71% admission rate versus OU's more selective profile). Among Oklahoma's 14 marketing programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, meaningfully above the state median of $41,018.
The debt picture strengthens the value case. At $22,250, graduates carry less debt than both national and state medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50βhalf their first-year salary. This manageable burden becomes even more favorable as earnings climb through the mid-$50,000s by year four. For families weighing in-state options, OSU delivers middle-tier starting salaries but top-tier debt levels, a combination that creates financial breathing room early in graduates' careers.
The takeaway: This is a solid choice for Oklahoma families seeking affordable marketing credentials with clear income progression. You're not paying for OU's premium outcomes, but you're also not shouldering premium debt, and the four-year earnings trajectory suggests graduates develop marketable skills that translate into raises and promotions.
Where Oklahoma State University-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all marketing bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Oklahoma State University-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma State University-Main Campus | $44,366 | $56,827 | +28% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $82,553 | $117,639 | +43% |
| University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | $57,331 | $76,370 | +33% |
| University of Central Oklahoma | $38,628 | $49,915 | +29% |
| Northeastern State University | $39,360 | $40,972 | +4% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Marketing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (14 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,234 | $44,366 | $56,827 | $22,250 | 0.50 | |
| $9,595 | $57,331 | $76,370 | $21,500 | 0.38 | |
| $34,100 | $41,590 | β | $22,000 | 0.53 | |
| $25,900 | $40,447 | β | $21,500 | 0.53 | |
| $7,513 | $39,360 | $40,972 | $18,371 | 0.47 | |
| $8,522 | $38,628 | $49,915 | $22,350 | 0.58 | |
| National Median | β | $44,728 | β | $24,267 | 0.54 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with marketing graduates
Advertising and Promotions Managers
Marketing Managers
Sales Managers
Fundraising Managers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Fundraisers
Survey Researchers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Oklahoma State University-Main Campus, approximately 26% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 290 graduates with reported earnings and 286 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.